Probe fake news that NRIs can vote online: CEO to police

13 Mar 201905:30am IST

13 Mar 201905:30am IST

Team Herald

PANJIM: The Chief Electoral Office (CEO) has sought police investigation into the fake news spread via social media announcing that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has made provisions for online voting for NRIs during the forthcoming Lok Sabha (LS) elections.

The CEO has clarified to the general public that the ECI has not made any provision for NRIs to vote online during the parliamentary polls, which will take place in Goa on April 23.

The CEO come across fake news being spread through social media using the ECI’s logo, stating that NRIs are allowed to vote online during the LS elections, thus creating confusion among the general public.

“It is observed that some people are spreading fake news through social media using the Election Commission of India’s logo, creating confusion among the general public,” read the press statement issued by the CEO stated.

“Taking cognizance of such fake news and complaints received about the same, the Office of Chief Electoral Officer has referred the matter to Police Department to investigate,” it said further.

CEO has asked the police to take necessary action against such people who are spreading fake news and causing disturbance in the conduct of election process.

As per existing directions, the overseas electors have to come to their respective polling station with their passport to cast their votes.

The citizens are requested to refer to ECI’s website www.eci.gov.in or the Voter Helpline app or they can call the toll free number 1950 for any assistance, information.